TRANSPORT Scotland has revealed that over 100 new projects designed to increase walking, cycling and shared transport are underway thanks to a multi-million pound fund.
The Smarter Choices, Smarter Places Open Fund has awarded over £2.3 million in grants. Supported by the Scottish Government’s £80 million Active Travel budget, the fund aims to cut Scotland’s carbon emissions, improve air quality and tackle health inequalities by promoting more active forms of transport.
Managed by walking charity Paths for All, grants of between £5000 and £50,000 are available to public, private and third sector organisations.
Transport minister Michael Matheson said, “I’m pleased that the funding from this government has supported over 100 local transport projects from the third sector, community organisations and public agencies through the Smarter Choices Smarter Places Open Fund.
“The fund is already creating new opportunities for people to walk and cycle for everyday short journeys and to choose sustainable options for longer journeys – which is so important for our health, our air quality and our climate. By providing innovative solutions in communities across Scotland, these projects help encourage people out of cars and onto more sustainable forms of transport for everyday journeys.”
